Thirthahalli Fort

Thirthahalli Fort, also known as Kavaledurga Fort, is a historic hill fort near Thirthahalli in the Shivamogga (Shimoga) district of Karnataka, built in the 9th century and later strengthened in the 14th century by ruler Cheluvarangappa. It served as the last capital and a stronghold of the Keladi Nayakas, who were originally feudatories of the Vijayanagara Empire before becoming independent rulers after its fall.

The fort is situated on a steep hill in the Western Ghats and features impressive granite walls following the hill’s contours, with multiple lines of fortification, grand gateways, watchtowers, temples, and ruined palace structures. Notable temples inside include the Shikhareshvara (Srikanthesvara) temple at the summit, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the setting sun towards the west.

The palace ruins reveal sophisticated architecture with interconnected rooms, pillared verandahs, kitchens with stone ovens, and an elaborate water supply system connected to natural mountain streams and lakes, ensuring water availability year-round. The fort is accessible via a moderately challenging trek that passes through dense forest and rocky terrain, providing stunning views of the Western Ghats.

Once controlled by prominent rulers including Venkatappa Nayaka and later Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, today the fort lies largely in ruins but remains an important heritage site reflecting Karnataka’s medieval military, architectural, and cultural history. The trek and fort visit offer a blend of nature, history, and tranquility about 18–20 kilometers from Thirthahalli town.